Research volunteers needed for summer 2023
A new project in partnership with the University of Plymouth and a fisherman (Jof Hicks) on the island of St Agnes has just launched. .
The project aim is to test the use, value and applicability of potting for shellfish using natural materials. Jof fishes with withy (willow) pots from a tiny vessel that he rows. He builds his pots himself and is very keen to develop best practise in this area and learn more about the ecology, sustainability and economy of this method.
As part of this work we are looking for volunteers to help over the summer with the ecological aspects of the project - assessing how withy pots interact with the enviroment and how effective they are as a fishing method.
You would be living and working on St Agnes, Isles of Scilly. Whilst this is not a paid position, travel to and from the islands, accommodation and a daily allowance for food will be provided. You will need to be able to spend between three and six weeks on the island. You may also choose to travel back and forth each week, but we would expect you to be present for at least 75% of the time. All training and equipment is provided.
Daily tasks: You will be responsible for the day to day logistics of getting cameras charged and ready for a day's filming, meeting Jof before he goes to sea and then again on his return to retrieve the cameras and his catch data for the day. You will also be responsible for writing up catch data and analysing video footage from the GoPro cameras.
Skills required: You will need to be happy to live and work in a remote location with limited home comforts (we are trying to secure a small cottage but accommodation on Scilly is incredibly hard to find so you may need to camp for at least some of the time). We are looking for someone who is organised, reliable and hard working. Analysis of footage from video cameras is fairly time consuming but we have methods developed from previous projects and will provide training and support for all aspects of the work.
This would be a fantastic opportunity to gain some hands-on experience of working in the field and working with stakeholders, academics and managers. The islands are beautiful and would be a great place to spend a summer. The local community is very friendly, and there will also be seasonal workers at the campsite and pub to socialise with. If you are keen to get some amazing field experience and love spending time outdoors and in/on/under the sea then this is for you!
Please respond to sarah.gall@plymouth.ac.uk if you are interested by sending a CV and a brief e-mail including these questions before the 31st May:
- Why are you interested in the project?
- Why do you think you would be well suited to the work?
- What do you hope to gain from this experience?
- When you would be available?